4 Treatment Areas for Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy is a genetic condition that causes muscle weakness and a loss of muscle mass. There is no cure for any type of muscular dystrophy but there are treatments that can help patients manage the symptoms and improve their quality of life.

MORE: Watch what happens when children meet a man with muscular dystrophy.

According to the U.K. NHS and the Mayo Clinic, there are four main areas of treatment for people living with muscular dystrophy:

Mobility Assistance
This covers areas such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, exercise and physical aids such as walking aids, electric wheelchairs, braces, and other equipment needed for everyday life.

Surgery
Surgery usually consists of spinal surgery to correct curvatures (scoliosis) or other postural deformities.

MORE: How to talk to your child about their neuromuscular disorder. 

Medications
Medications can be used to treat some of the symptoms associated with muscular dystrophy, usually, these will consist of corticosteroids used for slowing down the progression of muscle wastage and increasing muscle strength, or heart medications such as beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors.

Support
Emotional and practical support is essential for muscular dystrophy patients and their families. Social workers, psychiatrists, and counselors provide an invaluable service.

MORE: Coping with your child’s diagnosis of a neuromuscular disorder.

Muscular Dystrophy News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.